Cell count and chemistry flexibility
The MAX713CPE+ charges 1 to 16 series cells, which covers everything from a single-cell portable instrument pack to a 16-cell backup battery string. The multi-chemistry support means the same IC handles NiMH, NiCd, and lithium-based chemistries — a single BOM position can serve multiple product variants without a chip change. Charging is constant-current, so the charge rate is set by an external resistor and the supply voltage. The maximum supply is 5.5 V.
Package and mounting – board-fit reality
The 16-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm) through-hole package is a legacy footprint that fits standard breadboards and prototyping sockets. The supplier device package is 16-PDIP, which is the same mechanical outline. For a production board, the through-hole leads require drilled plated holes and wave soldering — a process step that surface-mount chargers skip. It is not rated for automotive or outdoor enclosures where the ambient may drop below freezing.
Sourcing and supply posture
The MAX713CPE+ ships in a tube (the listed package form). The part is ROHS3 compliant, which covers the EU RoHS exemption list.